The emergence of the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara (KSC) as MAN of The Year at the New Telegraph’s Awards is a recognition of his achievements in delivery of good governance and development of social infrastructure in Rivers State.
The governor was bestowed with the prestigious Man-of-the-Year Award 2025 on Friday by the New Telegraph Newspapers at a colourful ceremony held at the Oriental Hotels in Lagos.
The award, according to the management of New Telegraph, was in recognition of Governor Fubara’s giant strides in the delivery of people centred programmes and projects across Rivers State.
“In addition, being nominated as the MAN OF THE YEAR by a national daily is an eloquent testimony of your rising profile in the politics of the country. In fact the award is another befitting feather on your cap for your resilience, bravery and dexterity in fulfilling your social contract with the people who elected you in spite of all the odds.” the event organisers said.
In a citation read at the award ceremony, the management of New Telegraph disclosed that the choice of Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the newspaper’s MAN OF THE YEAR came through a painstaking screening and evaluation process.
According to the New Telegraph, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has been making waves in Rivers State with his impressive development agenda.
“Since taking office in May 2023, he has focused on transforming the state’s infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economy. Like a giant, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has left his bold foot prints on nearly every community and every sector in Rivers State.
“In spite of the numerous distractions from the political battlefield, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has demonstrated an amazing capacity to keep his head above the storm while swimming across the troubled waters. He has shown an uncommon capacity to remain focused, resolute and steadfast on the mandate freely given to him by the good people of Rivers State,” the citation read.
Some of the key achievements of the Fubara administration showcased at the award ceremony included:
*Road Infrastructure Development
His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara has undertaken the construction of the 50.15km Port Harcourt Ring Road project, and commenced construction of the 19.1km Buguma-Abalama-Tema-Degema-Abonnema road project worth N30.4 billion.
Beyond these major arterial highways, Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration has been actively working on various rural road projects in Rivers State. The aim is to open up the rural communities, improve connectivity and boost economic growth.
“Some notable rural road projects include the Trans-Kalabari Road Project – a 12.5km stretch connecting the state capital to several Kalabari communities, with about 75 percent of critical piling work completed and expected to be finished in 2026.
“There is also the Ogbakiri Road Project – a 9.7km road project designed to improve connectivity between Emohua and the surrounding riverine communities. This particular project was completed three months ahead of schedule.
“Next is the Ngo-Atlantic-Oyorokoto Road- a 13.52km road project leading to Oyorokoto Beach and a new beachfront, expected to be completed by March 2026.
We also have the Kalaibiama-Epellema Road Project. This is a 5.2km road project featuring a 450-meter bridge, aimed at improving access to coastal communities.
There is also the Emohua-Tema Road- a 15.24km dual carriageway road project, which is part of efforts to enhance easy access to several rural communities.
Last but not the least is the Ahoada-Omoku Road Extension-a 25.4km dual carriageway project, aimed at boosting economic activities in that part of the state.
“These projects are part of Governor Fubara’s vision to transform Rivers State through strategic infrastructure investments, promoting mobility, social cohesion, and economic growth,” the citation read.
The Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration has also made impacts in Education, Healthcare, as well as general Economic growth in Rivers State.
Highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the award to the governor amidst standing ovation from the audience which included some of his colleagues (governors), past governors and other dignitaries.
– By Onwuka Nzeshi, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Fubara.
